Maurice Fred Goodman Obituary
Sept. 9, 1951 – Feb. 26, 2026
Maurice (Morrie) Fred Goodman, passed away on February 26, 2026, at the age of 74.
Born on September 9, 1951, in Kansas City, Missouri, Morrie lived a life defined by
curiosity, adventure and a deep commitment to communication and public service.
Morrie graduated from Southwest High School in Kansas City in 1969 and later earned
a degree from the University of Kansas School of Journalism, which sparked a lifelong
passion for storytelling.
A veteran television journalist who later became a nationally respected crisis-
management expert, Morrie deeply understood the power of communication to inform,
reassure, and unite people in moments that mattered most. That foundation led him to
significant public service leadership roles. He served as Director of Communications for
the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) under President Bill Clinton
during some of the nation’s most challenging moments, including the response to the
Oklahoma City bombing. He also held senior communications positions with the U.S.
Department of Commerce, NASA, and Boeing. Colleagues respected him for his steady
leadership, clear thinking, and ability to navigate complex situations with calm insight.
Later, as Vice President of Crisis Communications at James Lee Witt Associates LLC,
Morrie advised public- and private-sector clients navigating complex challenges,
bringing the same steadiness and integrity that defined his public service career.
While Morrie’s career brought him remarkable experiences and opportunities, the things
he loved most were often simpler. Later in life he made his home in Florida where he
enjoyed the water and pursued his love of boating. He was also an enthusiastic dog
lover — especially when it came to his beloved dog, Ducky and as owner of Paws 4
Play.
Those who knew Morrie will remember his intelligence, his sense of adventure, and his
ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Morrie took joy in mentoring the
younger generation and helping many get their career starts. For many, Morrie was “that
person” who took a chance on them professionally and changed the course of their
lives.
Morrie is preceded in death by his parents Ethel and Maurice Goodman. He is survived
by his sister, Hilda (Lee) Magilow, his nephews, Jeremy Lips and Jason Daniels; and his
cousins, Fred Greenstein (Marcia Schoenfeld), Miles Schnaer (Paula), and Madeline
Schifman (Bob), along with many additional family members who remember him with
love.

A memorial service will be held on March 2, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Rose Hill Cemetery
in Kansas City, Missouri, where friends and family will gather to celebrate his life and
enduring legacy.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis
Foundation, Wayside Waifs, Muttville Senior Dog Rescue, or a charity of your choice.